Boulder banning fireworks in open spaces

Boulder banning fireworks in open spaces

BOULDER — Boulder police advised visitors to leave personal fireworks at home if they’re viewing the city display from an open space and mountain park like Chautauqua Meadows this July Fourth.

Police and rangers will perform “visual inspections” of people, containers and bags entering Chautauqua Meadows to enforce a firework ban during the annual “Ralphie’s Independence Day Blast.” Visitors who refuse inspection will be denied entry from open spaces, police said Monday.

If you are found with fireworks, they will be confiscated and you will be issued a court summons, said Joe Reale of Open Space and Mountain Parks. Igniting fireworks within the city limits or on open space property carries fines and penalties up to $1,000 and 90 days in jail.

Glass containers and alcohol over 3.2 percent are also prohibited for public safety reasons.

Flagstaff Road will be closed July 4, from 3 to 11 p.m. After 3 p.m., all traffic will be diverted at Fourth Street and Baseline Road, Reale said.